Sunday, February 13, 2011

Aralia (Polyscias balfouriana)

Although these plants are sold as aralias, polyscias is the correct name. P. balfouriana is the variety shown here. Its erect stems bear shiny dark green leaves, each with three roundish leaflets two to four inces across. Variegated forms are also available: P. balfouriana marginata features white0edges leaves; P. balfouriana pennockii has slightly cupped, milky green leaves edge in dark green.

Light

Balfour aralias perform best when given four or more hours of direct sunlight daily; but they will grow well in bright indirect light light. Even in locations with only man-made light, aralias survive admirably.

Water

Keep the soil barely moist. Mist the foliage to increase humidity, or place the pot on a pebble tray and keep the water level almost to the top of the pebbles.

Special Helps

Feed established plants three or four times a year. Repot rootbound plants in spring, using a general all-purpose potting mixture. Propagate any time of year from stem cuttings.